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New Delhi: A new term-"Office-Air Glow Down"-is currently making waves on social media. People are sharing videos online showing themselves getting ready in the morning with great enthusiasm-engaging in "dopamine dressing" (wearing outfits that boost their mood)-and heading to the office; however, by the time evening rolls around, their facial glow has completely vanished.
People attribute this phenomenon to the air within the office environment-a concept now being dubbed the "Office Air Theory." But is the air in your office truly robbing you of your radiance? Let's find out from Dr. Chandni Jain Gupta (Dermatologist and Aesthetic Physician, Atlantis Health Care, New Delhi).
What is the 'Office-Air Glow Down'?
Simply put, it is a condition where, after spending the entire day in the enclosed environment of an office, your skin's natural luminosity completely fades by evening. Internet users believe that the recycled air and artificial lighting found in offices make the face appear tired and aged. Consequently, by the end of the day, your face begins to look weary and lifeless.
Is the Air Truly to Blame?
The primary reasons for a diminished glow in the office environment may lie in poor ventilation and air conditioning.
Low Humidity: In offices equipped with air conditioning systems, the moisture levels in the air drop significantly. When you sit for hours in low-humidity air, moisture begins to evaporate rapidly from your skin. As a result, the skin starts to feel tight, lifeless, and dehydrated.
Weakened Skin Barrier: Dry air compromises the skin's natural protective barrier. This renders the skin more sensitive, potentially triggering issues such as eczema or irritation.
Oily Scalp and Hair: When the air is excessively dry, our scalp begins to produce excess sebum in an attempt to compensate for the lack of moisture. This is why, by evening, your hair starts looking sticky and oily.
Dehydration Shock-The heat, sweat, and dust encountered during the commute to the office-followed by the sudden transition into the cool, air-conditioned environment of the workplace-constitute a major shock for the skin. This abrupt change causes the skin to become dehydrated.
Is this solely an office-related issue?
No, this problem can arise in any enclosed environment where humidity levels are low-whether it be your own home or a shopping mall. Furthermore, your lifestyle plays a significant role as well. Insufficient water intake, spending hours sitting in front of screens, and excessive caffeine consumption can also diminish your facial radiance.
